Why should I vote?

You might think that your vote does not matter, but every vote counts equally. There have been many elections which have been decided by less than 100 votes. Elections in Brighton & Hove are often close.

Voting in elections and referendums provides you with an opportunity to influence the UK democratic process. The people who win the election are there to represent you in policy development and decision making. The ability to vote exists as one of the more cherished rights that many have fought, marched and died for over the centuries.

If you have a problem with your postal vote you can apply for a replacement postal voting pack up until 5pm on election day.

You need to apply in person by going to our Electoral Services office at Brighton Town Hall. You will need bring us your spoilt ballot paper and the other parts of the ballot pack that were sent to you.

How do I send back my postal vote?

Your postal vote must reach us by election day to be included in the count.

Please return your postal vote as soon as you can in the envelopes provided. Post it to us in a Royal Mail post box. You don't need a stamp. Alternatively you can return your postal vote

Before election day - by hand to Brighton Town Hall or Hove Town Hall.

On election day - by hand to a polling station within the appropriate electoral area, before 10pm or to Brighton Town Hall before 5pm.

Why do I need to give my date of birth and signature to get a postal or proxy vote?

Postal and proxy voters must give their date of birth and signature when applying for a postal or proxy vote. Your signature and date of birth are separated from your ballot paper before being checked. Giving this information will not affect the secrecy of your vote. This requirement was introduced by the Electoral Administration Act 2006 to improve the security of postal and proxy votes.

If I have applied for a postal vote, can I still vote at the polling station?

If you have applied to vote by post, you cannot vote in person at the polling station. However, on election day you can return your postal vote to a polling station for your electoral area (before 10pm) or to the Electoral Services office at Brighton Town Hall.

When would I need a proxy vote?

If you are unable to get to the polling station on election day, because of ill-health or you are away you can apply for a proxy vote. A proxy vote is when you appoint somebody to vote for you.

Who can be my proxy?

Anyone who is eligible to vote in the election themselves can be your proxy. However, you can only be a proxy for up to two people who are not members of your immediate family. They will be sent details on where to vote on your behalf a week or two before the day of the election.

What happens after I’ve applied for a proxy vote?

Your proxy must go to your local polling station to vote. They will be sent a proxy poll card telling them where and when to vote. You must let your proxy know how you want them to vote on your behalf, for example, which candidate or which party. If you are able to go to the polling station yourself after all, you can still vote in person as long as your proxy has not already done so.

I’ve been made a proxy for someone. What do I need to do?

You will be sent a proxy poll card with details of where you should vote. If you can’t attend the polling station you can vote by post. You must apply for this before 5pm on the eleventh working day before Election Day.

Can I still vote in person if I have a proxy set up and can make it to my polling station?

You are still able to cast your own vote as long as your proxy has not voted already. If your proxy goes to the polling station after you, he or she will not be allowed to cast your vote again.

Can I have a permanent proxy?

Permanent proxy voting is only available to certain people on the grounds of health, employment or full time education commitments.

When would I need a postal proxy vote?

If your proxy cannot attend your polling station in person for any reason on the day of the election, they can apply to vote by post.

Am I automatically registered on the electoral roll if I pay council tax?

There is no automatic registration, even if people pay council tax. To register to vote, you need to complete a voter registration form or register online at: www.gov.uk/register-to-vote.

Can someone find me on the electoral roll if they only have my name?

No, the electoral register is not compiled in name order. There are 21 wards in the city and each of these is sub-divided into polling districts. Electors are listed by alphabetical street order within each polling district.